2 . First aid is emergency care for a victim of sudden illness or injury until more skillful medical treatment is available. First aid may save a life or improve certain vital signs including pulse, temperature, a clear airway, and breathing. In minor emergencies, first aid may prevent a victim’s condition from worsening and provide relief from pain. First aid must be given as quickly as possible. In the case of seriously injured, a few minutes can make the difference between complete recovery and loss of life.

First aid measures depend upon a victim’s needs and provider’s level of knowledge and skill. Knowing what not to do in an emergency is as important as knowing what to do. Improperly moving a person with a neck injury, for example, can lead to permanent spinal (脊柱的)injury.

Despite the variety of injuries possible, several basic rules of first aid apply to all emergencies. The first step is to call for professional medical help. The victim, if conscious(有意识的), should be reassured that medical aid has been requested, and ask for permission to provide any first aid. Next, assess(评估)the scene, asking other people or the injured person’s family or friends about details of the injury or illness. The victim should be checked for the medical card that describes special medical conditions. Unless the accident scene becomes unsafe or the victim may suffer further injury, do not move the victim.

First aid requires rapid assessment of victims to determine whether life-threatening conditions exist. One method for assessing a victim’s condition is known by ABC, which stands for:

A—Airway: Is it open and clear

B—Breathing: Is the person breathing? Look, listen, and feel for breathing.

C—Circulation: Is there a pulse? Is the person bleeding extremely? Check skin color and temperature for additional signs of circulation problems.